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World first mobile phone detection camera pilot

World-first technology capable of catching drivers illegally using mobile phones will be piloted at two locations in Sydney.

After a successful testing phase, the Liberals & Nationals Government has selected Australian company Acusensus to trial high-tech cameras on the M4 and Anzac Parade.

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said during the month long test period in October, more than 11,000 drivers were detected using a mobile phone illegally.

“Shockingly, one driver was pictured with two hands on his phone while his passenger steered the car travelling at 80 km/h, putting everyone on the road at risk,” Mrs Pavey said.

KEY POINTS

Acusensus was one of three technology companies that took part in a four-week testing period in October

Cameras will be deployed on the M4 and Anzac Parade from January 2019

No fines will be issued during this period

The new system uses high-definition cameras and artificial intelligence to detect offending drivers illegally using their phone behind the wheel. It can operate both day and night and in all weather conditions.

“If at the end of the trial, the technology proves to be foolproof, the community will be made aware of its permanent use,” Mrs Pavey said.

“Seventy-four per cent of the NSW community support the use of cameras to enforce mobile phone offences. I strongly believe this technology will change driver behaviour and save lives,” Mrs Pavey said.

Alex Jannink from Acusensus said he was motivated to create mobile phone use detection cameras after his friend was killed in a horrific crash a few days before Christmas.

“Since my friend James was killed by an impaired and phone distracted driver five years ago, I have had a strong desire to develop this technology to save lives,” said Mr Jannink.

To see how the camera works and images of drivers captured illegally using their phone, click here.